The relatives of a British couple detained in Iran are resolute in their commitment to ensure their safe return.

Craig and Lindsay Foreman were taken into custody in January, with details of their arrest surfacing on Thursday when Iranian state media disclosed they were held on unspecified security allegations.

In their early 50s, the couple embarked on a global motorcycle journey, initially planning a brief five-day stay in Iran.

A statement from the Foreign Office, on behalf of their family, expressed, “This unforeseen development has raised considerable anxiety for all of us, and we are fully focused on ensuring their safety and well-being during this challenging time.”

The family characterized the scenario as “distressing,” stating, “We are actively collaborating with the British government and relevant authorities to effectively navigate this complex situation.”

They added that the emotional strain of this incident is significant, but the “overwhelming support from friends, family, and the community” has provided them respite and resolve as they endure this ordeal.

Mr. and Mrs. Foreman were on their way to Australia as part of their global travels.

After entering Iran from Armenia on December 30, they had aimed to be in Pakistan by January 4.

Following their stays in Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan, with a local tour guide, they proceeded to Kerman but failed to check in at their hotel.

Prior to their detention, the couple shared their excitement about their experiences in Iran through social media.

Lindsay Foreman, a life coach with a Ph.D. in psychology, described her time in Iran as “amazing.”

Craig, a carpenter, remarked on the kindness of the “lovely people” in a “lovely country.”

On January 3, Mrs. Foreman shared an image of herself meeting a cleric in Isfahan, stating on Instagram, “Travel continuously teaches me that humanity’s essence is grounded in kindness, humility, and mutual respect.”

On Facebook that same day, she commented, “Despite cultural, linguistic, and traditional disparities, we’ve witnessed a beautifully universal truth: kindness, humor, hospitality, and a shared appreciation for exquisite cuisine!”

Iranian officials have yet to clarify the charges against the couple.

Since 2019, they had relocated from East Sussex to embark on a new chapter in Andalucia, Spain.

Reports indicate Mrs. Foreman was conducting a research initiative on their travels to Australia, exploring the meaning of being human and the elements of a fulfilling life.

She was scheduled to present her insights at a conference centering on positive psychology in Brisbane in July.

In her Instagram posts, she acknowledged the risks associated with traveling to Iran and Pakistan against Foreign Office advisories, expressing that it was “somewhat daunting.”

“Yes, we recognize the risks,” she stated. “However, we also understand that the joy of encountering remarkable individuals, uncovering their stories, and experiencing the breathtaking landscapes could overshadow the fear.”

She remarked, “From the vast deserts of Iran to the majestic mountains of Pakistan, we aspire to showcase the beauty, hospitality, and kindness that often go unnoticed.”

The Foreign Office has confirmed its communication with Iranian authorities and is extending consular support to the couple.

A photo depicting the couple with blurred faces, taken during their meeting with the British ambassador Hugo Shorter at the public prosecutor’s office in Kerman, was released on Wednesday.

Currently, the Foreign Office advises British citizens against all travel to Iran.

“British nationals and those with dual British-Iranian citizenship face a significant risk of being arrested, questioned, or detained,” the advisory states. “Holding a British passport or having ties to the UK may be a basis for the Iranian authorities to detain individuals.”

In recent years, numerous foreign and dual nationals have been detained in Iran under vague security-related circumstances.

Human rights advocates argue that these arrests are often manipulated by Iranian authorities for political purposes.